Recently, (G)I-DLE’s outfits on KBS2's 'Music Bank' sparked controversy. The members wore lifeguard-themed costumes featuring the unauthorized use of the red cross symbol, which is prohibited by the Korean Red Cross.
According to Article 25 of the Korean Red Cross Act, "No one other than the Red Cross, military medical institutions, or those authorized by the Red Cross may use the Red Cross symbol or similar symbols on a white background for business or promotional purposes." Unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem can result in a fine of up to 10 million KRW (~7,234 USD) or a penalty of up to 5 million KRW (~3,617 USD).
In addition to the emblem controversy, (G)I-DLE faced criticism for wearing very short and tight tops and shorts, which were seen as "sexualizing" the lifeguard profession.
Cube Entertainment acknowledged the issue on their official social media, stating, "We recognize the problem with the stage costumes and have contacted the Korean Red Cross to apologize. We are actively discussing measures to prevent recurrence and take follow-up actions. We apologize to all those affected."
Their response went beyond an apology. On July 19, the Korean Red Cross announced that (G)I-DLE members Miyeon, Minnie, Soyeon, Yuqi, and Shuhua each donated 10 million KRW, totaling 50 million KRW (~36,172 USD), to support flood recovery efforts.
The donation was made as (G)I-DLE became aware of the Red Cross emblem's significance for life-saving purposes under the Geneva Conventions. They decided to support and participate in flood recovery following record-breaking rainfall. The group expressed, "We hope the Red Cross's humanitarian activities, which save lives, will comfort the flood victims and help them return to their daily lives as soon as possible."
Kim Chul Soo, President of the Korean Red Cross, responded, "We believe (G)I-DLE's support will provide warm comfort and great strength to the flood victims. As a statutory disaster management and relief support organization, the Korean Red Cross will do its best in flood recovery activities."
Since July 8, the Korean Red Cross has been engaged in emergency relief and recovery activities for 22 days, involving more than 2,600 employees and volunteers in various regions severely affected by heavy rain.
Established in 1905, the Korean Red Cross has been dedicated to humanitarian activities for 119 years, rushing to the scenes of domestic and international disasters to save lives and alleviate human suffering.
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